Katsina market fire outbreak destroys 10 shops at Fatima Baika Market as firefighters contain blaze and launch investigation into suspected cause
Fire officials from the Katsina State Fire Service have confirmed that a blaze gutted 10 shops at the Katsina Central Market, also known as Fatima Baika Market, in the early hours of Tuesday, destroying goods worth millions of naira before it was brought under control.
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The fire outbreak reportedly began around the early morning hours, with traders alleging that a solar-powered electricity inverter may have triggered the inferno.
However, authorities have stressed that the exact cause remains under investigation.
Spokesperson of the Katsina State Fire Service, Rabe Audi, said in an official statement that emergency responders received a distress call shortly after the fire started and were swiftly deployed to the scene.
According to him, the rapid intervention helped prevent the flames from spreading to adjoining sections of the busy market.
Audi confirmed that 10 shops were completely destroyed in the blaze, while seven nearby shops and several goods were successfully rescued during what he described as a critical containment operation.
Among the affected goods were food items, beverages, textiles, curtains and other assorted merchandise.
A Peugeot 406 vehicle parked within the market premises was also salvaged from the fire, limiting further losses.
The Focus Keyword Katsina market fire outbreak reflects the scale of the incident, which has left traders counting their losses and calling for improved safety measures within the commercial hub.
Fire officials have advised members of the public, particularly users of solar inverter systems, to ensure proper installation and regular maintenance to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
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Rabe Audi added that a full assessment of the damage will be conducted to determine the overall extent of losses recorded in the market, while investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
